Augusta, GA (December 19, 2014)- The East Central Health District wants to encourage its residents to avoid getting the flu this flu season by getting a flu vaccination. The most important step you can take in protecting you and your family from the flu and its potential serious complications is getting a flu shot. Flu is now widespread across Georgia with five deaths having occurred and the expectation by health officials that this could potentially be a very bad flu season.

ATLANTA The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is providing help to Georgians who want to quit smoking and stop using tobacco products. With grant money from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, DPH is offering a four week supply of free Nicotine Replacement Therapy to all Georgia tobacco users aged 18 and older. Along with the American Cancer Society and the Great American Smokeout, DPH is urging Georgians to quit smoking not just for the day, but for life.